Sarah Pettit, director of public affairs at Associated Food Stores (ARS), has been named to the Utah Food Bank board of directors. Her appointment comes as the Utah Food Bank continues expanding its reach across the state to meet growing demand.
Pettit leads government affairs and public affairs efforts for AFS and has long been involved in community partnerships focused on hunger relief.
Earlier this year, AFS and its retailers played a key role in Feed Utah, a statewide effort that collected food for local pantries and communities in need. She also works with policymakers and industry leaders on issues tied to food access, including public programs and support for independent grocers that serve as community anchors.
“This is a cause that’s always been close to my heart,” Pettit said. “There are families in every community who are struggling, and I’m grateful for the chance to represent AFS in our efforts to be part of the solution.”
Founded in 1904, the Utah Food Bank provides emergency food assistance through a statewide network of partner agencies and direct-service programs. Its mission centers on “Fighting Hunger Statewide,” ensuring people in all 29 counties have access to food when they need it most. Each year, the organization distributes tens of millions of meals and partners with hundreds of local pantries and organizations to reach children, seniors and families in need. Hundreds of thousands of residents across Utah are at risk of missing a meal.
“Food insecurity isn’t just a statistic,” Pettit said. “It’s something that affects people we know in our neighborhoods and the larger communities we serve. I’m honored to be part of an organization doing this work every day.”
About Associated Food Stores
Associated Food Stores (AFS) is a cooperatively-owned wholesale distributor serving independently-owned supermarkets across eight states.